WASHINGTON, D.C. — The forecast calls for rain and thunderstorms this Saturday in the nation’s capital, raising concerns about possible disruptions to a full day of festivities celebrating the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday — an event that also coincides with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.
The celebrations, which are expected to draw thousands to the National Mall, include fitness events, military displays, and a marquee Army Birthday Parade scheduled for the evening. But the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings of unsettled weather conditions throughout the day, particularly during the evening hours when the parade is slated to occur.
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- 1 What’s Happening on Saturday
- 2 Rain and Thunderstorm Forecast
- 3 Preparedness and Contingency Plans
- 4 A Dual Celebration
- 5 Public Interest and Security
- 6 Looking Ahead
What’s Happening on Saturday
Events will kick off with a fitness challenge at 9:30 a.m., followed by an Army festival at 11 a.m., also located on the National Mall. According to the U.S. Army’s official website, the festival will feature:
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Meet-and-greets with soldiers and Army astronauts
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Appearances by NFL representatives
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Medal of Honor recipients
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Equipment displays and military demonstrations
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A ceremonial cake-cutting
The Army Birthday Parade — the main attraction of the day — is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. and continue until 9:30 p.m.
Rain and Thunderstorm Forecast
The National Weather Service warns that showers and thunderstorms are likely for much of the day, with the highest risk for heavy rainfall concentrated during the initial portion of the parade.
Here’s a breakdown of the forecast for Saturday, June 15, in Washington, D.C.:
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Morning (Before 2 p.m.): A “chance of showers,” with temperatures rising to the low 80s.
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Afternoon (2–5 p.m.): A “chance of showers and thunderstorms,” as clouds build.
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Evening (5–8 p.m.): “Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm,” with rain most likely in the early part of the parade.
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Night (8–11 p.m.): A “chance of showers and thunderstorms” remains, with cloud cover persisting and temperatures cooling to a low around 67°F.
The NWS pegs the chance of precipitation at 60% throughout the day, advising those attending outdoor events to monitor the forecast closely and prepare for potential delays or cancellations.
“We expect showers to develop in the afternoon and continue into the evening. Some thunderstorms may produce brief heavy rainfall and gusty winds,” said a meteorologist from NWS Baltimore/Washington office.
Preparedness and Contingency Plans
As of Friday morning, organizers have not announced any schedule changes or cancellations due to the weather. However, with thunderstorms in the forecast during key event windows, attendees are being urged to bring ponchos or rain gear and to follow guidance from event staff regarding any safety procedures or changes.
Outdoor events on the National Mall, especially those involving large crowds and security arrangements, often include contingency plans for lightning or flash flooding. It remains unclear if parts of the parade or the military displays will be modified in response to the forecast.
The U.S. Army and the National Park Service, which manages the Mall, have not released statements addressing possible weather-related impacts.
A Dual Celebration
The significance of the event extends beyond the Army’s milestone birthday. The day also marks former President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, and Trump is expected to make some form of public appearance or statement, though details have not been officially confirmed.
The dual celebration comes at a politically charged moment, with the 2024 election cycle still fresh in the national consciousness. Trump has been a vocal supporter of military parades and displays of strength, previously organizing a large-scale “Salute to America” celebration during his presidency in 2019.
Public Interest and Security
D.C. officials expect increased crowds and traffic congestion near the Mall on Saturday. Road closures, enhanced security, and a visible presence of law enforcement and military personnel are expected throughout the day.
Despite the threat of rain, the event is still drawing interest from families, veterans, and tourists. Hotels near the Mall report high occupancy for the weekend.
Looking Ahead
Unless thunderstorms become severe, light to moderate rain may not cancel the events entirely but could reduce attendance or cause delays. Many are hoping the weather cooperates for what promises to be a visually impressive and patriotic event.
Attendees are encouraged to monitor local forecasts, follow @NWS_BaltWash on X (formerly Twitter), and check the U.S. Army’s event page or local D.C. emergency alert systems for real-time updates.
